Cheap Flights to California

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've planned ahead. We've put together a list of top travel tips that will get your California escape started on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free flight experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and important medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic gadgets or a juicy novel. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, knives, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The main aim is to be as comfortable as you can. Layer up with loose, natural fibers and take a sweater in case it gets cool in the cabin. Opt for a pair of well-fitting, flat shoes as your feet may swell during the flight. Leave the stilettos and heavy boots in your main luggage.
• The condition known as DVT (deep vein thrombosis) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity. Walking around the cabin and doing regular leg and foot exercises while seated helps to prevent this from happening. Wearing a good pair of compression socks also helps reduce your risk.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport can make your getaway to California quick and painless. Here are some top tips for a stress-free journey past security:

• Have your passport and boarding pass easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a good idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.